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Upon discovering The Washington Post‘s fascinating article titled “The 39 Definitive Rules of Office Fashion” [gift link], we realized it would spark an engaging and lively discussion among our readers. The provocative title naturally invites various opinions and debates, which is evidenced by the article garnering over 400 reader comments. Today, we aim to delve into comprehensive and insightful workwear guidelines that can help you navigate the often tricky waters of professional style!
Do you have your own concrete “rules of fashion” that dictate the appropriate attire for your workplace, and do you often find yourself giving disapproving looks to colleagues who disregard them? Additionally, a question for our Gen Z audience: Have you noticed younger coworkers either intentionally or unintentionally bending the dress code rules? For instance, I’ve recently heard about the “office siren” style, which was also mentioned in the article. It certainly raises eyebrows!
related: The Ultimate Guide to Business Casual for Women
Key Guidelines for Navigating Office Fashion Successfully
Let’s kick things off with some essential and straightforward rules highlighted in the article, primarily focusing on business casual attire — these are principles that most of us can likely agree upon. Avoid wearing crop tops (although cropped tops are acceptable), steer clear of flip-flops, ensure no visible bra straps are showing, and remember to leave hats at the door during meetings. Elastic waists are deemed acceptable, but always arrive looking fresh and clean, with clothes that are wrinkle-free. It seems that fewer people are ironing these days, doesn’t it?
related: professional frump: what to avoid
While most of the 39 rules presented are quite reasonable and insightful, let’s examine a few (abbreviated) statements that have sparked lively debate among readers, along with some of my personal takes on the matter:
1. On pants fit: “If your calves (or any other part) are bulging out, your pants are too tight.” [The focus on calves is odd, right?]
2. On carrying items to work: “You may carry a work bag and a gym or tote bag. Any additional bags would be considered excessive.” [I feel like they should have included an exception for breast pump totes and insulated bags for breast milk. Ugh, I don’t miss those pumping days.]
3. Regarding the vest trend: “A waistcoat necessitates a shirt underneath.” [However, doesn’t it depend on the amount of coverage provided, such as with this rag & bone vest?]
related: are there any rules around going sleeveless at the office in 2025?
4. Concerning “flowy” dresses: “A sack-like dress that covers you from collarbone to toe is comfortable, modest, and easily accessorized. Yet, any dress shape that makes you feel confident is probably suitable. You could even wear a cocktail dress to work if paired with masculine, flat shoes.” [Sack? Cocktail dress?]
5. About the rules themselves: “Feel free to break these rules, but only one at a time.” [But does this apply to ALL the rules?]
Interestingly, the authors did not specifically address sleeveless tops, even though they discussed exposed toes in great detail. This omission could spark further conversations.
related: Gen Z’s rules for appropriate office wear
Readers, we’d love to hear your thoughts: What is your opinion on the selected “rules” from WaPo? Would they be acceptable in your business casual environment? What are your personal, non-negotiable rules regarding your workplace’s dress code? Have you recently worn something that violated one of your previous rules at work? How did that experience unfold?
Stock photo via Deposit Photos / maxxyustas.
